US Removes Syrian Leader From Terror List Ahead of Visit

In a significant diplomatic shift, the United States has officially removed Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa from its terrorism blacklist, just days before his scheduled visit to Washington. The announcement, made by the State Department on Friday, marks a notable change in relations as Sharaa works closely with Washington on key security issues.

Once considered a "Specially Designated Global Terrorist," Sharaa had ties to jihadist groups including Al-Qaeda, and the US had even placed a bounty on him. His removal from the blacklist follows a vote led by Washington at the United Nations Security Council to lift UN sanctions against him.

State Department spokesman Tommy Pigott highlighted that the actions reflect "progress demonstrated by the Syrian leadership after the departure of Bashar al-Assad and more than 50 years of repression under the Assad regime." The US noted that Sharaa’s government is cooperating on critical matters such as locating missing Americans and dismantling any remaining chemical weapons.

Sharaa’s rapid rise to power last year, backed by Turkey and Gulf Arab allies, has reshaped Syria’s political landscape. His forces swept to authority in a swift offensive, consolidating control in key regions. The upcoming visit to the White House, scheduled for Monday, is being watched closely as President Donald Trump signals support for Sharaa’s new administration.

Regional players have reacted cautiously. Israel, long wary of Syria’s leadership, initially opposed diplomatic engagement and has conducted military operations in Syria since Assad’s ouster to limit perceived threats. Meanwhile, Sharaa’s cooperation with the US suggests a potential recalibration of alliances in the Middle East.

The move is being seen as a pragmatic step by Washington, reflecting both strategic interests and the evolving reality on the ground in Syria. Analysts suggest that Sharaa’s visit could open doors for new economic and security collaborations, although the path ahead remains complex.